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Physiotherapy for airway clearance in adults
1Dept of Cystic Fibrosis, Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Trust, London, UK.
The European Respiratory Journal
|January 7, 2000
Summary
New airway clearance techniques are effective and comfortable for lung health. Individual patient preferences significantly influence treatment adherence and regimen selection.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Respiratory Therapy
Background:
- Traditional lung clearance methods like postural drainage are being superseded.
- Modern techniques offer improved efficacy, comfort, and patient independence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current airway clearance techniques for augmenting lung function.
- To discuss the evidence base and factors influencing technique selection.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of various airway clearance techniques.
- Analysis of evidence supporting different methods.
- Consideration of patient adherence factors.
Main Results:
- Several advanced techniques (e.g., Active Cycle of Breathing, Flutter, High-Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation) are now preferred.
- The forced expiratory "huff" maneuver enhances airway clearance effectiveness.
- Evidence supporting specific technique superiority is variable and conflicting.
Conclusions:
- Objective differences between techniques may be minimal.
- Individual patient preference and cultural factors are crucial for treatment adherence.
- Personalized selection of airway clearance regimens is recommended.